The Bible refers to people as lost sheep. We need a Shepherd. Jesus is the Good Shepherd (John 10:11). Accept no substitute.

Your pastor, dad, mom, best friend, etc. may help point you to the Shepherd, but remember that none of them is the Shepherd. If your dad disappoints you, Jesus did not disappoint you. Your dad is a sinful human (1 John 1:8), and he disappointed you. People will always let us down.

Although perhaps varying in degree across cultures, it seems to be much more common to follow someone we can see rather than to follow Jesus. So we find ourselves following a curious blend of Scripture + someone’s opinions.

The Bible is the inspired Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Before taking a stand on issues “in the gray areas” (not clearly condemned or approved in Scripture), seek the Lord (James 1:5-6).

Movements react to one another, and out of these wars come strong opinions that are not necessarily those of the Shepherd.

Truth is difficult to hear. Despite appearance, the majority is not following Jesus. If your faith is dependent on your pastor’s walk or your someone else’s walk, you will fall when they stumble.

New believer, you have entered a war. A strong relationship with Jesus is vital. You must be willing to stand alone.
Talk to Jesus daily. Read the Bible daily. The Bible is not a text book that we study for a while and then put away. Go to church weekly. These are not optional. These are requirements.

Be careful out there, friend.

See Hebrews 4:16; 1 John 1:9; Philippians 4:6; Hebrews 4:12; Acts 17:11; Hebrews 10:25

“Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints,”   – Ephesians 6:11‭-‬18